The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of December 20, 2025

Scabbard

1800s

Philippines

Wood with rattan strips
Overall: 44.8 cm (17 5/8 in.)
Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.768
Location: Not on view

Did You Know?

The scrolling motifs traveled with Islamic people by way of maritime trade.

Description

The flared form of this wooden scabbard indicates that it was made to house a barong blade that would have belonged to members of a Muslim group in the southern Philippines, the Maranau, Tausug, or Yakan. The upper section features incised scroll-like motifs, similar to the stylized floriate designs common in southern Philippine okir carving traditions. Several bands of rattan lashings reinforce the sheath, adding both structural stability and decorative rhythm.
  • ?–1916
    Mr. Jeptha Homer Wade II [1857–1926], Cleveland, OH, given to the Cleveland Museum of Art
    1916–
    The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH
  • {{cite web|title=Scabbard|url=false|author=|year=1800s|access-date=20 December 2025|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1916.768